First Speed Skating Competition in Phils: Filipina Rep Off to a Good Start

October 21, 2014 – The SM Skating Rink together with the Philippine Skating Union hosts the very first international speed skating competition in the country.

71 international delegates from across Asia flew to the Philippines to vie for the gold medal in the 2014 Asian Open Short Track Speed Skating Trophy. Usually held in South Korea or Japan, the International Skating Union through its regional arm, the Asian Skating Union partnered with the Philippine Skating Union to stage the country’s very first speed skating competition. “We are very happy to have the tournament in the Philippines” says president of the Asian Skating Union, Mr. Myong Hi-Chang. “With having said that this is the first speed skating event of the Philippines, we are very impressed with the SM Skating Rink and Philippine Skating Union,” adds Sonia Chong, events official for the Asian Open Short Track Speed Skating Trophy.

Among teams of contestants was sole Philippine representative, Ms. Kathryn Victory Magno. Counting the tournament as her second official competition, Magno finished 3rd place for the first round of the Senior Ladies’ division winning her a bronze medal. Initially ahead of the pack in the first lap, Magno finished in 3 minutes and 6 seconds—mere moments away from her opponents. Finishing in first and second are Ji-Hyun Choi and Ju-Young Kim, both respectively are delegates of Korea. Although already a winner, Magno will continue to represent the Philippines as she competes in the coming days for first place in the Senior Ladies’ division.

No. 22: Philippine Representative, Kathyrn Victory Magno

With two days left, the sport holds true to its name as the swift yet vigorously exhilarating tournament draws near to the finals. The Asian Open Short Track Speed Skating Trophy 2014 continues to take place at the SM Skating Rink in Megamall’s Mega Fashion Hall until October 23, 2014. Audience members are encouraged to witness the first ever speed skating competition as admission to watch is free. The tournament begins at 12:50 PM on October 22 and 12:40 PM on October 23, 2014.

SM Lifestyle Entertainment Incorporated or SMLEI is the lifestyle and entertainment solutions company of SM Prime Holdings Inc. that offers the best in movies, events, leisure and technology. Starting with SM Cinema, the largest cinema exhibitor in the country, as its sole marque, the company grew into 12 major brands. Currently tucked under its belt are brands such as SM Cinema, Director’s Club Cinema, IMAX Theatre, WM Cinemas, SM Skating Rink, SM Bowling and Leisure Center, Exploreum, Snack Time, e-PLUS Tap to Pay, e-PLUS Digital, Mall of Asia Arena, and SM Tickets. SMLEI aims to promote bonding activities among Filipino families and friends, through entertainment and leisure facilities, while advocating the ease of use and personalized service created to complement the Filipino lifestyle.